BYU football: Offensive staff could be overhauled

Comments

Re: Commentator: It is called a "Pink Slip " I know I will cut you
some slack you were excited to get your point across.

Oh it is all
about football do not for one minute think other wise. The QB mess was
orchestrated to justify starting the fair haired boy over the three return
missionaries who by the coach's Owen admission's " Skill

BleedCougarBlueEnid, OK

Dec. 22, 2010 5:33 p.m.

Man!, would I LOVE to have Ben Cahoon and Ty Detmer as assistants!!!

Where's Stockton ???Bowling Green, OH

Dec. 22, 2010 4:27 p.m.

Look... some of you rediculous clowns out there are obviously either not aware
that Bronco didn't hire the O.C. or you don't understand what that means. Add to
that that the last of Crowton's recruits are now finishing out there eligibility
and more of Bronco's recruits are getting their starts. Even Anae has helped in
the Recruiting side but he also has to come through as a coach... and he's not
doing that.

Look at the number o True Freshman stand outs we have
this year. We have never had this many. This is a great offensive team with a
lot of talent. More talent than what Anae can develop with his style. It's
just not aggressive enough in the passing department. The weak link has now been
exposed. The O.C. is the problem. Bronco said after he fired the Defensive
Coordinator that he would evaluate the offensive staff at the end of the season.
This should be no real surprise to anyone out there who knows what is
happening. Bronco is sticking to that previous statement. The time has come.
Let's see how affective his decisions will be.

Where's Stockton ???Bowling Green, OH

Dec. 22, 2010 3:59 p.m.

Glad to see you finally got the message Harmon...Now at least a couple million
of us won't be quite so diasappointed in you media boys any more....But it would
be a mistake for Bronco to let Doman, Higgins and Rynolds go. You might want to
put your two cents in there about them. Anae is the obvious weak link in the
chain. He just doesn't have the perception to pick apart defensive secondary's.
His passing attacks are too easily read and too predictable. It's the timing
that Anae has never been able to get right. They don't put the secondary off
balance enough or force the spread like they need too. He needs to maximize his
receivers and their routes on every pass play and using the run to primarily set
up the key passing situations. Heaps and and your receivers will figure it out
once they've seen enough of these types of plays in practice. They just haven't
had any of those type of plays from The O.C. He was too busy being in his
quarterbacks face. He doesn't belong on the sideline. The Booth is his

fresnogirlFresno, CA

Dec. 22, 2010 2:19 p.m.

Ah Tomahawk Red

The fact that you Utes don't like Bronco convinces us
even more of his value. Maybe you should take care of your basketball team
instead of obsessing over our football program and our wonderful coach.

ute-chuteBeverly Hills, CA

Dec. 22, 2010 12:38 p.m.

Slim Shady 801 | 12:20 a.m. Bluffdale, UT

"And this
comes from a convert to Mormonism. Oh wait, I am a second class citizen since I
am not a lifer....my bad." ...

The BYU HC has to be Temple
Recommend worthy. I do not know if they have to be a "member".

I have no idea what you mean by being a second class citizen. Listen
again to the words of the sacrament prayers, and tell my why you're second class
again. Makes me wonder where you are really coming from....Falcons
sign backup QB Ty Detmer By MATT WINKELJOHN and KEN SUGIURA The
Atlanta Journal-Constitution Published on: 3/25/04

"Having worked with Falcons offensive coordinator Greg Knapp in San
Francisco in 1998, Detmer is familiar with Atlanta's new offense.

"Obviously the offensive system played a big part in [the
decision]," Detmer said.

Knapp wants Detmer to tutor starter
Michael Vick.

"That's one of the things that we talked
about," Detmer said. "I've been doing that pretty much the last few
years with different quarterbacks.""

Personally, I'd love
it if BYU brought in a convert to be QB coach...

Big HapaKaysville, UT

Dec. 22, 2010 8:43 a.m.

No double standards "Earning your Keep" seem's to be the catch phrase
in Provo, the post season looks encouraging, however, so did the beginning of
the 2010 season and look at that fiasco.

I will watch and listen for
actual news, not Hype. I would love to see Robert embrace the old blues song
number " Hit The Road Jack and don't you com back no more no more, Hit The
Road Jack and don;t you come back no more, no more, Hit The Road Jack and don't
you come back no more ..."

"POLY" Cougar Nation !

Lone Star CougarPlano, TX

Dec. 22, 2010 8:23 a.m.

I am sure coach Bronco will make thoughtful and informed decisions on his staff
situation. Clearly someone leaked info to the DN that should not have. This
maybe is someone who has had internal disagreements with Coach Bronco and has
been told that changes will be made and has projected their situation onto all
the other coaches on the offense. Thus, the info leaked may not involve the
whole Offensive Coaching staff but maybe just one or two coaches.

TheHailstormSouth Weber, UT

Dec. 22, 2010 1:11 a.m.

I would have really looked at Anae after the "take a knee " fiasco
against UCLA. From what I understand Anae was hired BEFORE Mendenhall and was
not Broncos decision to make. Help me out here Cougars, was Anae hired first ?
If so who hired him ? That just doesn't seem to make sense. Sometimes I
get really confused with the BYU process of doing things. By letting the
coaching staff go and then to go through the process of re-applying did that
save the $$ in raises or bonus payouts from the bowl victory ? I'm not
talking smack nor do I want to be criticized by the Cougar fans for asking, my
wife graduated from BYU and she was curious about how this can happen.
This has been the weirdest year ever in BYU football. There was the replay booth
scandal, going independent, a few critical mistakes at RES that may have cost
them the game, and now releasing the staff, I'm left to wonder what happens to
the recruits who were working with the staff ? The letter of intent day is just
6 weeks away and some recruits could easily get lost in the shuffle.

Slim Shady 801Bluffdale, UT

Dec. 22, 2010 12:20 a.m.

Why does the BYU coach have to be LDS? Aren't there other professions at BYU
from other denominations? Pretty shallow I think! And this comes from a
convert to Mormonism. Oh wait, I am a second class citizen since I am not a
lifer....my bad.

badlandscougargreat plains, sd

Dec. 21, 2010 10:26 p.m.

i would like to see anae and others retained. i read heavy-handed when
describing anae and felt that comment was unfair to anae. football is becoming
controlled by the discontent of some players. coaches are just that, teachers of
basic theories of their success. heavy-handed means someone is rebelling
and feels targeted...just play the game.

Duhwest jordan, ut

Dec. 21, 2010 9:40 p.m.

Oh boy, all of the fair weather fans are out in force calling for Bronco's head.
Only true fans who understand who "BYU" is will understand. There is
not a single player at BYU who would want to get rid of Mendenhall. He is a
great coach, he has done great things already but shaking things up has to
happen to be even greater. Just becuase he takes the blame doesn't make him a
bad coach. BYU recruits coaches not only for their coaching style but also for
the individual qualities. Again many miss the real reason for hiring Mendenhall
and it's not all about Football. Get over yourselves. He will figure it out and
when he does, we will see the fruits of his labor.

Y Grad / Y DadRichland, WA

Dec. 21, 2010 9:29 p.m.

May sound like "Bronco Kool-Aid" but put me 100% in his camp:

1 - Taking full public responsibility for the two-headed qb monster is what a
leader does. Privately analyzing the team that came up with the decision is
what a coach does.

2 - Who would you rather be, Jaime Hill or the
entire offensive team? I think a good man takes seriously the public
humiliation of a man, this allows individuals to save face while accomplishing
the team goals.

3 - We have a coach who demands commitment from his
players, inspires that commitment by personal example, and is now demanding the
same from his coaching team. I like that.

4 - He has won with
consistency and with integrity, and I wouldn't trade the Bronco years and
outcome with the Whittingham years and outcome. I have the utmost respect for
Whit and the Ute team, but I would rather be be BYU with it's unique
circumstances and the success that Bronco has re-built under greater
restrictions.

StocksOnTheRocksAmerican Fork, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 8:23 p.m.

Sad Thing, all this had to be pointed out Bronco, he never picked up on any of
it, or refused to acknowledge it, or confront it, because he is to much of a
nice guy??

Tom in CAVallejo, CA

Dec. 21, 2010 7:50 p.m.

@hedgehog:

We only had "600" to watch in NM, but you will
have 40 thousand watch while you are getting smashed in Vegas - how will that
work for ya?? Only 24 hours from now, dude. Can't wait.

gregoriasofyorkProvo, Utah

Dec. 21, 2010 7:43 p.m.

Cougar fans are embarrassing sometimes. I am tired of so many BYU fans declaring
BYU a national championship contender every single year. Be realistic! And
another thing, does anybody else think it is absolutely ridiculous to be asking
for Bronco Mendenhall to be fired after taking the Cougars to 6 straight bowl
appearances, 4 bowl victories, a .500 record against a consistently good
University of Utah team (although I will admit the record should be 4-2), and
completely turning not just a defense, but an entire team around this season? If
you do your homework then you will realize that Lavell Edwards would have been
toast if BYU administration subscribed to your standards for coaching!

worfMcallen, TX

Dec. 21, 2010 6:22 p.m.

The Utes have a great idea the Cougars can follow, hire ex-cougar players.

SJ BobkinsGilbert, AZ

Dec. 21, 2010 5:37 p.m.

Anae has to go, his play calling vs Utah was terrible. Playing not to lose
usually allows a poorer team to beat you as we saw during that horrible game.
BYU by running well against very bad teams caused "Take a Knee" Anae
to think the Cougars were a power running team which they are not. When BYU was
a point down with 90 seconds left and the ball on the Cougars 20 Anae called two
runs on first and second down that gained nothing and led to a third and 11.
Jake did move the team but you all know the rest. Anae just refuses to learn
from his mistakes. BYU will likely go to a running game coordinator and a
passing game coordinator. Reynolds is going nowhere, Higgins may be out as a
result of the poor development of the tight ends and wide outs. Domain will stay
and maybe pick up more responsibility. The defense has three temp. or GA guys
coaching, there has to be a shake up there also.

JDMACSalt Lake City, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 5:03 p.m.

Sure looks like this should be a great year. UTEP had several talented players
and the game provided a solid start for 2011.

Do have a concern about
the quarterback's ability to throw close to a spot and at the right time. Is
this something that can be coached, or is it an innate talent?

Thanks...

ResidentSpanish Fork, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 4:25 p.m.

@Tomahawk Red

You're right. We need to get back to the national
prominence that we had with Crowton as Head Coach. Oh wait...

Here's
an idea: Why don't you go read and comment on Ute stories. I know there's not
much for reporting on the Utes, and I know that BYU news draws far more
attention than Utah's news, but you chose to be a Ute. Is it really so bad over
there that you feel like BYU fans want to hear your 2 cents?

Trust
me, we're just fine over here. No need to worry about us. Now be a good Ute and
follow your program into Pac obscurity.

dhsalumSaint George, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 4:19 p.m.

Tomahawk Red---What big-name LDS football coach did you have in mind?
yeah, there's not many... Bronco has done a fine job and one rebuilding year
does not warrant firing the head coach, which is why I am surprised he feels a
need for the change on the offense. But this isnt Florida and this isnt
Texas, tomahawk, four years of 10 win seasons in a row is probably as good as
BYU will ever be. Thats not an insult to the program, or anything, its just a
fact that BYU is not Texas.

Tomahawk RedNorth Salt Lake, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 2:44 p.m.

Bronco mendenhall is an awful leader. BYU erred big time when they offered him
the job. BYU football will not get back to its usually high level of competition
until he's gone. Holmoe needs to go get a nationally prominent and well
respected head coach. if they did, BYU football would be scary.

worfMcallen, TX

Dec. 21, 2010 11:42 a.m.

WOW! It's common for employers to release, replace, and reassign employees.
We're just looking at a few people here. What's the big deal?

justathoughtDraper, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 11:41 a.m.

I think this is Mendenhall's way of getting Doman to call the Offense. I like
Anae. We need a o line coach. Reynolds need to find work elsewhere.

CalmDownFrost Free, Utah

Dec. 21, 2010 11:35 a.m.

optimist:Your apology is a gesture of unusual humility around these parts.
Very gracious, but not necessary, judging by your sincerity. These blogs get
caught up with a lot of intentional and personal bashing and I know several of
these boys very well, but it is clear yours had no such intent now. Actually,
the misspellings, knowing now that all three were unintentional, are kind of
humorous. Have a BLUE Christmas!

Idaho CougMeridian, Idaho

Dec. 21, 2010 10:46 a.m.

No one has been fired or released!!!

The staff is being evaluated and
I think it is very likely there WILL be changes.

IMHO, Mendenhall
took public blame for the 2-QB mistake like a good leader should. But he knows
it was a terrible mistake and those who pushed for it should be held
accountable. My sense is that was Anae. And combined with his questionable play
calling at times and lack of raport with some of his players he likely will not
return.

Before we annoint Doman as OC, remember that we have learned
time and again that some coaches are suited as position coaches rather than head
coaches or coordinators. I have no idea what Doman is best suited for. But I
hope Mendenhall has the ability to understand that and not throw anyone into a
situation they are not prepared for.

Crowton is clearly a coordinator
and was a good QB coach - not HC. Anae was a good o-line coach - not OC.
Mendenhall is a great DC and is a unique fit for HC at BYU but probably not
anywhere else. Doman? Good QB coach but who knows beyond that. This will be
interesting.

BlueHuskyMission Viejo, CA

Dec. 21, 2010 10:35 a.m.

I watched nearly every game this year. I saw the turnaround on defense when
Bronco took over. I saw the run-first strategy keep SDSU off the field for a
good win. I saw a dominant running game emerge, one that took pressure off Heaps
and set up the pass. I saw Heaps emerge into a real talent.

I also
saw the non-call on the BYU fumble in the SDSU game. I saw the knee-down
non-fumble that gave Utah a chance when BYU was dominating. I saw a few calls
that I disagreed with. I've also second-guessed hall of fame coaches like
LaVell, Don James, Vince Lombardi.

What I saw was a very young team
become a very good team, something that Texas was unable to do this year with
their young team.

What I did NOT see was bad coaching. I saw great
coaching - a team of freshmen jell like I've never seen before.

What
we will NOT see is a wholesale firing of offensive coaches.

Uncle RicoSandy, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 9:49 a.m.

Offensively BYU has had terrible play calling for much of the year. BYU needs to
upgrade their coaching staff. Hill is a jerk, always was. The guy had an
attitude and needed to go.Bronco is responsible for his team, at least
he's making some changes.

CougaristaSalt Lake City, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 9:47 a.m.

Lots of unemployed experts giving you advice, Bronco. Stay the course. You are
the Man.

IndependentHenderson, NV

Dec. 21, 2010 9:42 a.m.

"Tom Holemoe really needs to campaign for better players from the BYU
admisistration because the Y won't compete with the caliber of players they
currently have."

I disagree. There were too many scandals from
players behaving badly in the Edwards and Crowton years, and the best thing
Bronco did was to institute a more strict policy in this regard. I completely
agree with Bronco's philosophy that football is further down on the list than
the honor code, even if that means that BYU doesn't get the best football
players. What good is a winning BYU football team if there are constantly BYU
players in the news for breaking the law? Sure, they should recruit better
players, but never at the expense of BYU's good name.

SLCWatchSalt Lake City, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 9:33 a.m.

No one has posted this so here is something to consider:

Football
season has ended except for bowls. Openings are available across the country at
dozens of schools.

Other schools want good people.Bronco
released everyone to go look if they want to find something different.No
one was fired before Christmas.What Coach Mendenhall is saying is:

If you (coaches) know you might not pass muster after evaluations then
you might want to be marketing your self while the job openings are out there.
Good luck.

This was the best thing he could have done to help his
coaches who might know they weren't at the top of the game.

Mendenhall knew you couldn't replace offensive coaches in mid stream because
it is execution oriented on set patterns or plays. So he waitedd.

Defense is execution of knowledge with passion.No passion-no stay.

Who will go?My guess: If you watched the early games it
was not accuracy of the QB's. It was not catching anything and everything that
hit the hands. (Receivers coachs). 6 Top Tight End freshmen and no
one stepped up? (inside receivers coach) Offensive integration
failures (OC coach)Mendenhall knows!

NewsJunkieCenterville, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 9:33 a.m.

Re: Patriot

While I can partly understand what you are saying, that
"good kids will grow and learn from other good kids if the mentoring is
done right." However, relaxing the honor code is not the something that I
want to hear. The worst thing that Crowton did, more than anything, more than
allowing the consecutive scoring string to snap in a 0:3 loss to the Utes, was
bringing in players who ended up in the news for DUI and rape allegations.

Wally WestSLC, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 9:19 a.m.

re: optimist | 10:37 p.m. Dec. 20, 2010

I'm glad you clarified the
staff w/ the phrase Dream Team.

Do you really think Chow or Crowton
would leave their current positions?

Ty Detmer & S Young as
coaches? Wouldn't they be better off back in Bristol, CT (ESPN HQ) carrying the
banner for tds on the airwaves?

Y Grad / Y DadRichland, WA

Dec. 21, 2010 9:08 a.m.

Re patriot:

I can't believe I just read that.

BrendenAiken, SC

Dec. 21, 2010 8:59 a.m.

Huh, I must have read a different column than most of the posters here. This one
only said the offensive staff was being evaluated, which is standard
end-of-season procedure on any team. I didn't see anywhere that anyone had been
released or re-assigned, only that there is the possibility of such action--if
deemed necessary after all things have been considered.

That might
be a big 'if'. This is, after all, the same offensive staff that put together
four 10+ win seasons, won the conference several years consecutively, and put up
some impressive numbers on some decent opponents. Sure, there were some
embarrassing moments this year, but with a bunch of freshmen starters at key
positions and a paucity of senior leadership I don't know why that would
surprise anyone.

There is every reason to be optimistic about what
the current staff can do with the rising squad, and no real reason to expect
anyone to be shown the door.

patriotCedar Hills, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 8:53 a.m.

Bronco should continue to run the defensive as the coordinator. Lots of coaches
do double duty and Bronco needs to run the defense because no one else has
proven they can. Tom Holemoe really needs to campaign for better players from
the BYU admisistration because the Y won't compete with the caliber of players
they currently have. What this means is relaxing the honor code a bit (as Lavell
did) and bringing in inner city players and other non-members as well as more
kids from Tonga and the islands especially for the line. I am a firm believer
that good kids will grow and learn from other good kids if the mentoring is done
right.

CSprings CougarColorado Springs, CO

Dec. 21, 2010 8:16 a.m.

I support Coach Mendenhall and laugh at the silly posts calling for his
replacement....trolls. He accomplished the defensive turnaround and now he needs
to do the same with the offensive staff keeping those that are not the problem.
I believe the coming year and years are bright for BYU football. Go cougars!

BlutoSandy, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 8:08 a.m.

Can all of you critics, who don't feel anyone working for an LDS Institution
should ever be fired, because it's the "Un-Christian thing to
do".....Grow Up!

This is the real World and a business. It's OK
relax.

A Coaching position at BYU or anywhere else in the Church
employ, is not akin to having your "Calling and Election Made
Sure".

People are fired from LDS Business' every day.

Change can be good. It's why missionaries are frequently transfered.

Everyone saw during the Nineties that Norm Chow stayed to long, for his sake
and BYU's.

The 90's, save '96, were dismal.

Crowton never
should have been hired, Nepotism rarely succeeds, Val Hale hired his old High
School QB and it was a disaater.

The leaps from positions Coach to
Coordinator to Head Coach are dramatic. Coaches should know their strength's and
play to them. Anae is a good position coach, OC???

Anae is simply not
a good fit for BYU's traditional Offense.

Time for a change

However, I suspect Bronco's "loyalty to a fault" may get in the way
of him doing the right thing, for himself and Jake.

Jeff lsFarr West, 84404

Dec. 21, 2010 7:50 a.m.

Judging from the comments on the fan web sites, this was sure to happen. If
there are changes that need to be made you have to have an evaluation period. It
is only totally fair that notice is given to everyone. I am sure that every good
coach does this. I don't believe you can progress unless you evaluate completely
what you did in the previous year. Businesses, often times have to reinvent
themselves to be successful. R&D plays a huge part in the success of
business. That is essentially all that this is. How do we get better? I see a
little change but I think philosophy will certainly will be seriously discussed.
I would not be surprised if no personnel changes took place but assignments and
philosophy were the main discussion.Jeff

BlutoSandy, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 7:20 a.m.

Who can ever forget the first year with Anae in the Vegas bowl...

When Anae called a running play, instead of taking a knee, with seconds left
in the first half and BYU backed up against thier own goal line? Consequently,
UCLA scored and it took a blocked field goal to win the game.

Robert
Anae is a good Coach for the Offensive line, which is all he ever was coming out
of Texas Tech.

It was a bizzare hire form the get go.

He
had NEVER been an OC before, Ever!

Bronco has been frustrating to
watch at times, because he appears to be a slow learner. He was the last to see
the 2 QB system was a joke, when everyone else knew the consequences to
follow.

He pays no attention to poor offensive calls and game plans
on the Offensive side of the ball.

I wish Bronco were more a student
of the game from an historical perspective. He appears by his own admission to
have no knowledge on the offensive side of the ball.

Well it is time,
long past due, to get someone who does. Detmer, Doman, someone who knows how it
works. clicks.

sports-junkieWest Jordan, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 7:06 a.m.

I'm not sure why people keep saying that Bronco "fired" his entire
offensive staff. I don't know how it works where you do business but if you get
fired where I work you don't get the option to "re-apply".

I think it's pretty easy to say that MOST of his current staff will be back,
maybe all of them, but in new assignments.

I have always liked
Bronco but I haven't always been a true Bronco believer... until this season.
Teams that start 1-4 usually don't finish the way the Cougars did this season. I
fully trust that whatever is going on with the coaches will be the positive
changes that could make this program great for years to come.

It's
going to be a long off-season. Go Cougars!!!

da bobSalt Lake City, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 1:18 a.m.

Cmon guys, this is nothing more than a management strategy. Bronco is trying not
to single anyone out (cough... Anae), and is incorporating everyone to mask the
problem.

We will see Doman and Reynolds around. Not worried about
them.

bbzebraSandy, UT

Dec. 21, 2010 12:37 a.m.

A credible source has told me that Ty Detmer's home in Texas was recently listed
for sale..... Coincidence? I hope not.

I would love to see my favorite Texan back on campus. I don't know if the
comment boards are a reliable source of info ... but I love the idea of Ty back
at the Y.

Solomon LeviAlpine, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 11:26 p.m.

The whining from the trolls on the hill is simply evidence that Bronco is on the
right track revamping the offensive staff.

The fact that they're
calling for Bronco to fire himself just shows how desperate the trolls are.

Anae wasn't getting the job done. Too conservative. When everyone in the
stadium knows BYU is going to run on 1st down, it's time to get a new offensive
coordinator, someone with some imagination.

Heaps moved the ball to
the 20-yard line against Utah with still plenty of time to move the ball closer,
if not score a touchdown.

Instead, Anae decides to sit on the ball,
losing yardage on three straight dives up the middle, and then settling for a
40+ yard FG try.

McMahon would have ignored Anae and scored the game
winning TD. Heaps could have done the same if Anae hadn't shackled him with
training wheels most of the season. It's been reported that Heaps wasn't even
allowed to audible from a running play to a passing play. If a run was called,
Heaps could only audible to another running play.

duke5vancouver, wa

Dec. 20, 2010 11:22 p.m.

Its really to bad Bronco did not fire himself!

Orem CougarOrem, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 11:13 p.m.

Some of the comments on this post are moronic. People who think Bronco should
be fired are numb skulls! He has won 2 conference titles, won over 9 games for
the last three years, excepting this year of course. Lance Reynolds will be
back on the staff, he has a great football mind and has done a terrific job as
RB coach. Brandon Doman, Chad Lewis, Ben Cahoon, and maybe Ty Detmer will be a
great coaching staff. Let Bronco coach and get off his butt!

R.BurgundyCedar Hills, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 11:10 p.m.

Why does everyone say "true freshman"? What does "true" mean
anyway? Is there such thing as a "false" freshman? Just say
"freshman" or "red shirt freshman" this makes it so much
easier on the reader or listener. The other day I heard someone say "true
sophomore" and I about threw up! We all get it when we hear
"redshirt" which means the player skipped a year which means all you
have to say is freshman or sophomore which we will know the player didn't skip a
year

jonjonCedar Hills, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 11:09 p.m.

Bronco has been waiting to do this for awhile, he finally had BYU back him up
with this decision after this season. Seems like the Utah game made this easier
to get done. Good luck Brandon at OC, also there's reports that Ty Detmer has
put in for the Quarterback coach.

HelloooSalt Lake City, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 11:04 p.m.

Why is it people think that great players immediately make great coaches.
Actually, I think there is little correlation. Hope the Y the best in its
efforts to improve, and appreciate a head coach who gives the staff time to get
new jobs of their choosing.

Arizona2Tucson, AZ

Dec. 20, 2010 11:03 p.m.

I think Mendenhall is a great coach and has done a great job, I just hope he
isn't outguessing himself here. If there ends up being too much change
(particularly with schemes and expectations), you lose a lot of the lessons that
were learned at the end of the season--although I wouldn't mind seeing a little
more imagination in the play calling--take for instance Boise State. I don't
think they have the talent that BYU has, but the are creative and effective. I
know Bronco doesn't like trick plays all that much, but Boise State has shown
that with great execution, trick plays work against squads with a lot more
talent.

sgSanta Clarita, CA

Dec. 20, 2010 10:54 p.m.

Robert Anae should have been let go a couple of years ago. His offensive
schemes are terrible. Lance Reynolds is okay, but not great. Bronco really
should step down as head coach and be happy as the defensive coordinator. But
hey, what do I know.

All other coaches and asst coaches,
chosen by committee of all the other coaches listed above.

Above is a
dream team for a new independent BYUCougar Football team. We are the
Cougars without any other cute slogans. No more quest for perfection. No more
band of brothers. Just tough, hard fighting, well diciplined, winning Cougars.
That's who we are.

BugoffHouston, TX

Dec. 20, 2010 10:31 p.m.

Releasing all of the offensive coaches is a good move. The ones that want to
leave, or feel they should leave will find other jobs. Those who want to stay
will reapply and compete against the best available.

BYU will end up
with coaches who really want to be there and who are the best available.

Bronco will be able to shuffle assignments and restructure. I suspect
that most of the coaches will return.

optimistSun City, CA

Dec. 20, 2010 10:18 p.m.

CalmDown | 7:01 p.m. Dec. 20, 2010 Frost Free, Utah says:

"optimist:Nielson? Larkin? Mumms? If you meant to slaughter these
names, I guess that's funny to someone (crickets chirping). Otherwise, try
Nelson, Lark and Munns. These spelling revisions will fit better with those
eternal stats you're hanging on to."

Thanks, I appreciate the
spelling lesson. I stand corrected and appreciate that you call my attention to
the errors. I do know how to spell these names and I love each of these kids
and appreciate what they are doing for us at BYU. There was absolutely no
intent to slaughter any names or to be disrespectful in any way.

I
will try to slow down with my posting and try to be more accurate with my
spelling. I stand by all else said and we may all respectful disagree with each
other as long as it remaings respectful. Thanks again.

FireHawkAurora, CO

Dec. 20, 2010 10:15 p.m.

I've seen Detmer's name several times in the posts but not at all in the News
Article. Is there a rumor he will be coaching or is he interested? I love
Detmer...and hope to see him get into coaching because he is a true field
general and did extremely well "Coaching" and understanding Offense in
the pros.

JayDeeWest Jordan, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 10:13 p.m.

Good luck coach in the coming days/weeks as you fine tune an offensive staff to
take the Cougars into independence.

I also like the addition of Chad
Lewis to the athletic department.

Absolutely hilarious to see the
regular Ute trolls so frazzled by this news that they feel the urge to foretell
the downfall of Cougar football as we know it...again.

Why all their
concern for an "irrelevant", non-AQ program on the eve of the eve of
the Utes playing in a high-profile game of two top-20 powerhouses to maintain
the universe's longest bowl winning streak?

Curiouser and
curiouser...

COUGARNATELyman, WY

Dec. 20, 2010 10:11 p.m.

I think that most of these coaches will be back. Bronco did this because the OC
thought he was running the show, and this is Bronco's way of saying I'm in
charge, not you. Doman for OC!!!!! BYU will be just fine, and I bet you see a
lot of familiar faces on the offensive coaching staff, minus one or two coaches.
Personally I hope Anae does else were. I am way past sick of his terrible play
calling at crucial points in big games. GO COUGS!!!!!

fresnogirlFresno, CA

Dec. 20, 2010 10:11 p.m.

I trust Bronco. He doesn't strike me as a person who reacts or acts rashly. On
the contrary, he strikes me as a very thoughtful and meditative person who seeks
for inspiration in his decisions.

He's not firing everyone; he
reorganizing. Some may not come back and others may change jobs. I think he will
make good decisions.

dhsalumSaint George, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 10:10 p.m.

since when does tied for 3rd mean 5th uteology?

Tom in CAVallejo, CA

Dec. 20, 2010 10:05 p.m.

@patriot 5:13

No - coaching is not overrated. Coaching is underrated.
You have to look no further than Boise State who for years has landed mostly 5th
& 6th tier rated players,i.e., Kellen Moore, who have come into a coaching
system that has years of proven results. Moore was recruited by only Eastern WA,
Idaho, and BSU - and look what he has turned into under coach Peterson and his
staff. There are numerous other players that have developed like Moore in the
BSU system.

Coach Mendenhall can do the same at BYU by revamping the
coaching staff. Good move - coach Mendenhall. Can't wait to see the new staff.

Cougar CindySalt Lake City, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 9:26 p.m.

Love this Coach!

Go Bronco!

FreeManHeber City, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 9:09 p.m.

It's all good. Way to be willing to make the hard choices for the benefit of
the program.

Just TruthSaratoga Springs, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 8:33 p.m.

All these comments are a little premature. There isn't any real news yet as to
what, if anything, BYU will be doing in the way of offensive changes. That said,
the offense does need to evaluate and make some changes, even in personnel. Anae
needed to quit sitting on the ball long ago but with an evaluation coming, it
may be too late for him now.

The BYU of old kept scoring points when
it got a lead on a good team. It was the best defense is a good offense
strategy, whereas now the offense is putting it all on the defense to play to
the last whistle.

eagleProvo, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 8:24 p.m.

To tracer: Actually a lot of Lavell's coaches moved on, certainly the best of
the lot. Mike Holmgren, Brian Billick, Andy Reid, Ted Tollner, Doug Scovil,
Fred Whittingham--they all coached and moved on to bigger and better things for
the most part...

Still, I'm not sure that wholesale changes and
making all the offensive coaches reapply for their jobs is the best thing.
Right now, the ship needs to be steady. It might be taking a little water but
all will be well most likely...

eagleProvo, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 8:18 p.m.

I'm sorry if I disagree with most folks and even Bronco or some of his higher
ups. I thought BYU was really turning the corner and they were a young team with
a young quarterback that got better. It is not time to push the panic button.
I would honestly consider REASSIGNING Anae but keeping him on the staff. He is a
good line coach and a good recruiter.

BYU fans refuse to look at
reality or the big picture. They had an off year. They have won 10 games four
out of five years. I would expect BYU to win 9 or 10 games next season vs. a
season like what happened next year. Again, the key for BYU, Bronco and and the
higher ups is not to panic. Perhaps some shifting of assignments is in order,
and this happens all the time on many staffs. I think even Utah needs to tweak
a few things on its staff. But to me, this seems silly and rather than
improving matters causes unnecessary tension in the program.

Jose Ortizamerican fork, utah

Dec. 20, 2010 8:12 p.m.

This is step in removing the football progarm all together. BYU will soon use
the stadium for Soccer

JimFribbleRexburg, ID

Dec. 20, 2010 7:38 p.m.

Maybe this is a 'nice' way to let Anae go.Maybe Doman to OC, Detmer to
QBC, and Cahoon to WRC.Maybe this is just a ploy to get everyone to ignore
the Utes.

CalmDownFrost Free, Utah

Dec. 20, 2010 7:36 p.m.

Parkercoug:A little insider info for you, Doman didn't do the dividing. I
will not throw anyone under the bus, even though I could. The decent thing to
do here is to pull someone out from in front of it. Doman has not had the
freedom to do as you say.It would be nice if the Y, of all programs, would
stand for what they profess and rise above the political bull so abundant in
sports at all levels.

Floyd JohnsonBroken Arrow, OK

Dec. 20, 2010 7:35 p.m.

Otis missed the mark again. BYU does not need a BCS conference for their long
term survival. BYU is positioned well and their future appears very stable.

Coach Reynolds was the OC in 2000. It didn't go well. He is a great
position coach, and has good recruiting connections, but I do not forsee him
calling plays next year.

It would be interesting to see Cahoon on the
sidelines in 2011.

hedgehogAnn Arbor, MI

Dec. 20, 2010 7:29 p.m.

"No BCS Conference has shown the slightest indication that they would ever
consider BYU.

Bronco recognized the need for a change in order to
take the team to the next level."

Otis,

I totally
agree. BYU "relivance" is at a 6 year low. The 600 fans at the NM
toilet bowl will attest to that. BYU is on the radar of ZERO BCS conferences.
Going "indy" was simply a last ditch effort in trying to be accepted
by the real world.

Good luck wit your 7-8 record as you head onto
your island.

Straight Forward>>>utah, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 7:29 p.m.

unfortunate for the families of the coaches but its part of the bizz. lets do a
national search and get the best oc possible. Doman is a great candidate but not
ready yet, however keep him on the staff.

LinusBountiful, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 7:26 p.m.

How about Austin Collie as receivers coach? As a pro, he is way too focused and
way too committed for his own safety. A career change is the answer.

San D BlueOrem, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 7:23 p.m.

Bronco is simply sending a message. Anae wasn't his guy and he stuck with him. I
hope it works, but I keep thinking be careful what you wish for. As for Doman, I
have heard he is getting anxious to move on and has had offers from some BCS
schools that he is looking at. I hope he stays but it might be the end of his
stint in Cougarnation. Whatever happens Bronco has proven that he is a GREAT
coach and he'll stay as the HC. Love Bronco and love the Cougars. 2011
here we come.

SpoxjoxRedmond, WA

Dec. 20, 2010 7:17 p.m.

I'm amazed at all the idiots posting here, and I'm not just talking about the
obvious idiots (e.g. Hedgehog). "Fired before Christmas"? I mean,
seriously, you people desperately need to pull your heads out. Bronco is giving
his coaches as much time as possible. They aren't fired (yet).

I
expect mindless stupidity from the likes of Uteology, Hedgehog, and the other
Ute "fans" who insist on posting to BYU articles, but it's a bit
disturbing to see such inanity from supposed BYU boosters.

Henry DrummondSan Jose, CA

Dec. 20, 2010 7:16 p.m.

You have to show loyalty to get loyalty. One of the strengths of the BYU program
over the years has been the willingness of assistant coaches to stay with the
school even when they could have received more money and more prestige
elsewhere.

If the school is going to dismiss the whole offensive
staff, including such stalwarts as Lance Reynolds, you may find you just threw
away your biggest asset. Why work for BYU if they are going to be just like any
other school.

Don't be surprised if you see talented assistant
coaches you want to keep leave and becomes harder and harder to attract the
talent assistant coaches you desperately need.

ParkercougParker, CO

Dec. 20, 2010 7:16 p.m.

I disagree with the assessment regarding Coach Doman. I don't think he helped
Heaps this year. He seems to divide quarterbacks.

SportzFanSalt Lake City, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 7:13 p.m.

"That's hard to do when you love both players and they're so equal. I think
it hurt us at the beginning of the year. And it's no one's fault but my
own."

But I'll fire the offensive staff anyway...

idabluIdaho Falls, ID

Dec. 20, 2010 7:11 p.m.

Lots of hot air blowing on the discussion boards. The fact remains that no-one
really knows what is going on, and the info DN provides is sketchy. From the
article the only thing we conclude is that there will probably be a shuffle in
the coaching staff and one or more coaches might be out. Anything else is pure
conjecture.

It is interesting that 90% of the comments critical of
Bronco are coming from the Utah contingent. What is the matter are you afraid
of Bronco?

MichiganCoogCottonwood Heights, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 7:07 p.m.

Ya gotta laugh yourselves silly to hear some of the dorky comments out of the
Ute fans on here trolling yet another BYU story...because you know what? After
BSU puts a hurtin on that overrated Ute team we all know is a fraud, will be
doing the same thing with there very "offensive" staff as well. Yes,
just like BYU, can beat up on teams with 1-10 records then stink up the place
when they face real teams. But here's the cold hard facts that make the future
of both programs quite interesting:

1)BYU returns all of their skill
players on offense for next fall, whereas Utah loses most of theirs...Best QB
(and please spare me any talk of Mr. Wynn), top 3 RB's are gone, best WR, and
best OL's

2)BYU returns a stellar LB corp, and are getting add'l
firepower w/ Kavenga and the DE coming in from USC...not sure about Utah's LB
corp, but do return a stable of DL's...

If I were a Utah fan, and
would consider myself dang lucky to achieve 7 wins, 6 is more likely BYU? 10
wins easy!

Otis SpurlockOgden, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 7:06 p.m.

This was probably for the best. BYU needs to be in a BCS Conference for their
long term survival and they know it. The move to independence was only to
position themselves in a more attractive light to BCS Conferences.

It's simple. If a team is good enough to be in a BCS Conference then they
will get invited (See TCU and Utah). Right now, BYU is clearly not good enough
to attract the attention of a BCS Conference. No BCS Conference has shown the
slightest indication that they would ever consider BYU.

Bronco
recognized the need for a change in order to take the team to the next level. I
for one will be rooting for you guys to finally get an invite to the elite BCS
Conference and join the big boys.

Good luck, your BCS brother.

CalmDownFrost Free, Utah

Dec. 20, 2010 7:01 p.m.

optimist:Nielson? Larkin? Mumms? If you meant to slaughter these names, I
guess that's funny to someone (crickets chirping). Otherwise, try Nelson, Lark
and Munns. These spelling revisions will fit better with those eternal stats
you're hanging on to.Also, I doubt you SAW one snap of spring practice
being from CA. There was a reason why there was a 2QB system. Heaps wasn't
ready and y'all are forgetting how pathetic he looked during his early season
game reps, even having received the majority of snaps all spring. Nelson or
Lark should have been given the majority of snaps while bringing the kid along.
Bronco's right, it was a disservice, but not for the reason he's saying. Oh
well. It's all history now and, due to a battered and inferior opponent in
Albq. a barely over .500 team and coaching staff will drag many lessons with
them into next season.

RBCCody, WY

Dec. 20, 2010 6:59 p.m.

We can speculate all we want but one things for sure, Brandon Doman isn't going
anywhere--unless some other school hires him away. And these posters who say
Bronco is one a short leash don't know what they're talking about. Bronco is
perhaps the best coach BYU has ever had and Holmoe knows it. That said, I think
everyone else is on thin ice. However, major shake ups hurt a teams continuity.
Player/coach relationships take a long time to develop, and whole sale turnover
is in no ones best interest. So I can see a couple coaches leaving but no more
than that and perhaps only one.

SpoxjoxRedmond, WA

Dec. 20, 2010 6:52 p.m.

I like Anae, but I'm resigned (so to speak) to the fact that Bronco's going to
axe him. I hope Reynolds is the new OC and Doman his assistant, or at the very
least continues as QB coach. I don't believe either will be fired, but they
might well decide to search for greener pastures.

GrizSalt Lake City, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 6:52 p.m.

@PP"BYU has had a top 10 offensive 4 of the last 5 years. What
exactly do you want from an OC? Is never having a play fail your
standard."

I'm not sure what your definition of a top 10 offense
is but BYU absolutely wasn't top 10 this year in total offense or scoring or
last year or the year before. In some cases they weren't even top 20 and that's
with a ton of NFL talent on offense and some of the all-time greatest players in
BYU history.

Anae has showed he can beat up on the weak sisters of
the MWC and WAC but when he's up against ranked teams or BCS teams he's avg only
20 pts a game and has gone 9-14 with most of those 9 wins due to the defense
shutting down the opposing team (see the Oklahoma game last year) not because
BYU outscored anyone.

@Wedgie"Bronko is on a very short
leash. If these changes don't work he's as good as gone."

Weren't you whining the same thing about Twitt's job after the 2005 season?

worfMcallen, TX

Dec. 20, 2010 6:50 p.m.

Hate to bring this up, but O'Neil Chambers mentioned how the offensive coaching
was'nt very good. Maybe he had a point. I'm sure we'll have a well coached team
next year.

BlueHuskyMission Viejo, CA

Dec. 20, 2010 6:46 p.m.

I know nothing, hear no rumors but those on this board, which is 99% uninformed,
just like me.

So here's my uninformed guess: Anae was not Bronco's
guy, right? But he didn't whack Anae outright. Seems like Bronco wants to look
around and see who's available. If he doesn't see anybody he likes, then
everybody gets his job back, n'est-ce pas? Some super cool OC comes calling,
then adios Roberto.

Or maybe they just do this every year and the
DesNews just needs a story out of a non-story.

manutdMilford, CT

Dec. 20, 2010 6:44 p.m.

this was necessary, though harsh in some ways. could have waited until after the
holidays. what is there to gain by announcing it so early? feel bad for anae in
particular.

as far as replacements i would love to see doman as OC
but lets be honest, do you think he is going to just jump in and become an
offensive guru over night. we may have some rough times to start out.

some posters were joking about norm chow and crowton. i actually think both of
them wouldn't be bad at all. they have a ton of experience. who else out there
in the mormon world of fooball, not including the NFL guys, has more experience
than these guys? unfortunately neither would come back after the way we ran them
out.

CalNativeLong Beach, CA

Dec. 20, 2010 6:23 p.m.

Band of Brothers my butt.

LaserIowa City, IA

Dec. 20, 2010 6:20 p.m.

Bronco can do whatever he wants. He's proven! I would be frustrated too.
Receivers don't drop balls no matter who is throwing, Higgins should have been
all over that. Play calling, well let's just say Anae has been great, but for
some reason seems to have bizarre calls during a game, that no one can figure
out. But he is a good coach.

PLEASE DON'T LOSE BRANDON DOMAN! I also
hope Weber sticks around, he has made some mean lineman.

hedgehogAnn Arbor, MI

Dec. 20, 2010 6:18 p.m.

Bronko is on a very short leash. If these changes don't work he's as good as
gone.

Trying times down at the bubble.

PPEagle Mountain, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 6:11 p.m.

It is funny, the football team has had fantastic sucess over the past 5 years
and now they have a 7-6 season - solved the defensive and offensive problems
before the end of the year - and people think there needs to be wholesale
changes including the head coach?

Must stink to be your kids. They
probably get beaten for getting a B on their report card.

BYU has had
a top 10 offensive 4 of the last 5 years. What exactly do you want from an OC?
Is never having a play fail your standard.

In a word you people are
CRAZY!!!!!! Probably the same group that wanted Chow and LaVell fired.

interesting. i do hope they keep the line coach and the running backs coaches.
they seemed to be the bright spots. is Matt Reynolds turning pro or will he
anchor another year for the cougs?

i am not sure Doman and Anae are
a good mix. i wonder how much Doman undermined Anae this year as he was on true
blue byu-tv saying he was for Heaps all the way but only admitted this once the
decision had already been made by injury. i find that hard to believe actually.
Bronco has also said in the last month that the QB position is up for grabs
again. so perhaps all the offense is up for grabs for both players and coaches.

i would love to see Ben Cahoon hired for as receivers coach. Ty
Detmer has no interest according to multiple reports over the years. Ty would be
a good OC for sure. Chad Lewis was already hired by the fundraising gurus. gotta
keep the high roller money boosters happy.

we need a new QB coach
for Heaps - a coach that understands the pocket presence nuances...

UteologyFort Worth, Texas

Dec. 20, 2010 5:58 p.m.

@Veritas Aequitas

I can't believe you love Bronco for helping BYU
become a 5th place MWC team.

Weren't you the one harping on 2009
Utah's 3rd place finish?

Enjoy your upcoming Indy season with a new
staff, let's see if you finish #18 like Utah did in 2008 with a new staff.

Thinking DeeperLindon, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 5:56 p.m.

SDUNN

I like your list but how good is your information?

ConfTCenterville, Utah

Dec. 20, 2010 5:45 p.m.

SO SO Great. Nice work Paul Gustavson

Veritas AequitasFruit Heights, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 5:37 p.m.

jcperine | 5:23 p.m. Dec. 20, 2010 Draper, Utah I find it hard to
accept that a Christian University would fire their coaching staff right before
Christmas. In my opinion the timing of this action demonstrates unthoughtful
leadership. ====

Welcome to the real world...

Best
move Bronco has ever made.

If you have a problem with a Christian
Coach doing his job, might I suggest becomoming a fan of TCU, Oral Roberts, or
Notre Dame?

Or, becoming a fan of the LDS Church Security Service,
the Tabenacle Choir, or LDS employment Services?

Dude, deal with the
reality....

"right before Christmas"???

Seriously...

When is a good time to let the weak link go?

Easter, Spring Break, Summer Vacation, or Thanksgiving????

Live in
Draper, and have all your Christmas Dreams come true!!!

catramNorth Las Vegas, NV

Dec. 20, 2010 5:34 p.m.

Here is the deal. I believe Bronco is a man of his word and that he is very
loyal. He must look after BYU first; no doubt. But, this is a way wherein the
coaches can look for other opportunities and leave without getting fired. Hill
was a different story: desperate times called for desperate measures. We all
need to wish Coach Anae a great future at whatever school will take him.

Alpha ChickenOrem, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 5:33 p.m.

This will buy Bronco a couple more years. We will see where this goes.

Veritas AequitasFruit Heights, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 5:28 p.m.

Now...

Utah do the same with Boylen...

jcperineDraper, Utah

Dec. 20, 2010 5:23 p.m.

I find it hard to accept that a Christian University would fire their coaching
staff right before Christmas. In my opinion the timing of this action
demonstrates unthoughtful leadership.

1984 for lifeSalt Lake City, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 5:20 p.m.

Dear Coach - I want you to find another job. You are welcome to apply for the
job that you just had and I will consider your application. Since every coach's
first priority is coaching at BYU, I am sure that all of you will be avaiable
once I decide to ask you to come back. If not, I will have Jake coach the
offense.

Thank you, Bronco

Veritas AequitasFruit Heights, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 5:19 p.m.

Exactly what Ronald Reagan did for his second term...

No one is
locked...

A beautiful move.

If you matter, you stay, but
if you don't, you will be replaced.

And, replaced with someone who
will do your job better...

I love BM more each day of this
season!!!

And it just ended for the weak!

ed in atlDuluth, GA

Dec. 20, 2010 5:16 p.m.

Lenny (Gomes)Gregory is available.

firestormLehi, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 5:15 p.m.

AAAWWWWSSOOOOOMMMMMMEEEE!! This is sooo needed. The pUke posters can all take
their anti-Bronco smack and go to vegas where they will witness an EPIC
BEATDOWN. Then lets see if they are calling for Wht's head.. This is a move
that shows BRONCO is the man in charge and the game will be played his way or
they will hit the highway.. I am looking for an aggressive intense and
innovativive offense to match the D>

patriotCedar Hills, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 5:13 p.m.

Coaching is over rated. The key to winning is good players... and it all starts
with recruting and then player development.

PPEagle Mountain, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 5:11 p.m.

Actually, this is what happens every year ar BYU. All coaches except the head
coach have one year conracts. Back in the day even the head coaches were in
this situation - including Lavele.

There may very well be changes
coming, but this story means absolutely nothing.

JROB22Saint George, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 5:10 p.m.

I'm pretty sure he's just going to fire Anae, but its just like a presidency in
the church... You release the president and then reorganize everything lol

My2PencePleasant Grove, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 5:09 p.m.

This has been a season of change, might as well adjust the coaching staff too.
Lets get things aligned now, so that we head into the biggest off-season in
school history, and be ready to play it forward.

Old ScarecrowBrigham City, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 5:07 p.m.

Interesting situation where Mendenhall is an effective defensive co-ordinator
and the clear leader of the whole organization. He needs an assistant head
coach who can do the head coach job while leaving the leading, motivating and
defensive scheming to Bronco. That's a tough marriage to arrange, but the
results of a good marriage like that would be just what we all want to see.
Hmm, who could do that -- Reynolds, Anae, someone new?

I heard a rumor that UCLA is letting Norm Chow go... I dont know if its true or
if BYU would consider him, but that would be interesting. Most likely will be
doman though, Bronco loves him..

panamadesnewsLindon, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:59 p.m.

To BigShooter: So if Bronco admitted that the QB controversary was "My
fault" then he is in essence pulling a "Harry Truman", and in
essence saying "the buck stops here." He is the head coach and until
he is released, has the responsibility to make decisions that will make the team
better. I am sure that what he is doing has the blessing of the AD and the
administration. Don't look for him to be replaced anytime soon. You Uties are
just afraid that this action will make BYU better and you just can't stand that,
can you! Look to BYU crushing Utah in many years to come, until the U of U
refuses to play BYU anymore. Sad day, but it will probably come to that in the
future.

utahcountyuteCedar Hills, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:59 p.m.

Ted

I'm pretty sure the "lUsers" don't care.

Cougs went 7 - 6 and lost to the Utes. Keep it up.

UteologyFort Worth, Texas

Dec. 20, 2010 4:54 p.m.

I guess the "Band of Brothers" t-shirt that Bronco was wearing didn't
include the offensive staff.

cactusflatsAmerican Fork, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:53 p.m.

Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome back to campus...

Norman Chow!

optimistSun City, CA

Dec. 20, 2010 4:52 p.m.

New Coaching Staff.

Head Coach:----Steve Young (his mission call)OC:------------Ty Detmer (His mission call)QB Coach-------Jim MacMahon
(Gets him into BYU Hall of Fame)DC:----------- Bronco Mendahal (Doing what he does
best)Line coaches, DF and OF and Special Teams coaches and all other
assistants to be determined, and using existing coaches where appropriate or new
coaches in areas that can not be adequately covered by existing coaches.

Suggested: Brandon Doman asst QB coach for back up QB and Scout team
QB.

We are making our big splash as we inter the 2011 season as
independents.

I wish.

WinglishLehi, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:52 p.m.

I'm on the edge of the cliff and I'm getting ready to jump...

cactusflatsAmerican Fork, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:49 p.m.

Paging Lavell.

panamadesnewsLindon, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:49 p.m.

To optimist: Why don't you apply for assistant head coach and OC. I'm sure
with your knowledge, you will be hired in a heartbeat. BY the way, this is an
athletic team not a religion. No one needs to repent! As a coach, one makes
decisions - some work out, some do not. You then evaluate, make changes, and
re-focus. No repentence necessary. Get a life!

BigCougFanCottonwood Heights, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:48 p.m.

I'm guessing that Reynolds and Doman will be back.. maybe in different
capacities, but they'll still be on the staff. I'm hoping Bronco brings in some
good new talent to round things out and build for the future.

SnarkProvo, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:46 p.m.

Bronco will make the entire coaching staff as accountable for the program's
success as he is willing to be. He will also find coaches who demand the
respect that he demands and builds relationships without sacrificing the Xs
& Os. Bronco would not make this move without having a pretty good idea of
what next year will look like. He is not going on a fishing expedition.

CommontaterLehi, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:44 p.m.

To those few who have a problem with Bronco they better decide they like him
because he isn't going to get a pick slip from the First Presidency, even if he
didn't win any games for an entire season. You forget all to quickly that it
isn't about football with the leadership of the Church either.

Too
bad we can't do the same thing to our government officials. The government would
automatically get much smaller and spend much less money.

Isn't free
enterprise a wonderful thing?

ResidentSpanish Fork, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:43 p.m.

@Big Shooter

We can see right through you. As someone who is not a
BYU fan, you obviously have NO idea what you are talking about.

How
is it that BYU turned the season around when Bronco fired Hill? Do you think
that was a coincidence? He has an influence on the team and does an excellent
job.

I'm excited to see who will be replaced or moved. I trust
Bronco's judgement. In my opinion, this team is going to be pretty good!

The proof will be in the pudding. Until you see whether this works or
not, you have no idea what you are talking about.

AFCougColorado Springs, CO

Dec. 20, 2010 4:42 p.m.

WOW!!

panamadesnewsLindon, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:39 p.m.

tracer: You couldn't have said it better. To many of you, you should read the
article carefully, and realize that this article was written with only heresay
information. We have not received the official BYU information as yet. The
offensive coaches were released from their positions and asked to re-apply.
Those who know they belong will be re-hired. Those who struggled will not do
so, because they know they were not doing the job. It will work out very well.
Maybe we will see Ty Detmer, or Vai Sikihema, or someone else who excelled as a
BYU player, on line as coaches. It is going to be interesting and is very
exciting.

cvguyLehi, Utah

Dec. 20, 2010 4:37 p.m.

You're fired! Now let me tell you about a job opening I have you may want to
apply for. Seriously? If Bronco wants them on staff, why fire them. If he
wants them gone, just let them go. Oh well, BYU still has St. Jake and he is
perfect.

WarezinhoSpanish Fork, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:34 p.m.

Most of you commenting are not reading/understanding the key to the the story.
It says "..conducts individual staff evaluations in the coming days to see
which assistant coaches he will retain."

Reynolds and Doman
could and most likely be retained. It seems like a good way to make sure all
staff are on the same page. Who knows maybe Anae will commit to be on the same
page as Bronco and will be returning as well.

ResidentSpanish Fork, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:33 p.m.

The article noted that each of the coaches are able to re-apply for the job. It
might just be a way of doing it fairly. Give them the opportunity to prove
themselves and why they belong.

To those suggesting that Bronco was
milking Reynolds because of his kids, let's not pointing our fingers in the
dark.

bigsoccerSyracuse, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:28 p.m.

They should bring in Crowton, great offensive minded guy, not a good head coach
at all, but offensivly he is a genious.

CBPapaCedar Hills, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:28 p.m.

I agree with some of the posters regarding who stays and who goes. Here's my
take:Doman as OCDetmer as QB coachCahoon as WR coachChad
Lewis as TE coachThe others stay where they're at respectively.Now
THAT'S a dream team coaching staff in my mind.

BigShooterSalt Lake City, Utah

Dec. 20, 2010 4:28 p.m.

In the words of President Harry S. Truman: "The buck stops here".
Bronco has long-since 'passed-the-buck'. If I were a Cougar fan, (which I am
not); I would be asking for Bronco's head. By his own admission, the
quarterback fiasco was "his" fault. BYU's AD is/was a college
football player, a professional football player and a college football coach.
STEP-UP NOW! I'm sorry, but BYU's late-season success was NOT solely attributed
to Bronco...if the assistants 'failed', so did Bronco!

Kyle loves BYU/JazzProvo, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:24 p.m.

Yay! Hire Doman! Anae wasn't popular with many of the players and I've never
like his boring offense and bad play calls. Especially against utah.

Doman! Doman!

CosmoSpringville, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:21 p.m.

Just want Bronco to know that this BYU Football fan supports him and is
incredibly proud of the program this season. I think you did a fantastic job
with the team this year -- as demonstrated by the change that happened over the
course of the season.

I hope that you retain many of the coaches that
you see fit--especially our QB coach and Line coach, who seem to be doing such a
great job.

Thanks Bronco!

agentbb007Lehi, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:17 p.m.

Wow big shakeup. I hope we can an OC that the players actually like and won't
run 3 dives in a row to setup a 50 yard field goal. From what I hear Robert
Anae was not the nicest of dudes...

panamadesnewsLindon, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:17 p.m.

ChuckyZ: Who do you think you are? Why would Bronco let all of the
coaches go on your account? Who are you? Did you request he should let go all
of the offensive coaches?

I do think that what he did was an
excellent idea. Now he can look at the applications of all who desire to be
hired as assistant coaches. I'm sure each will refer to their qualifications
and what they have accomplished during their years of service as assistant
coaches. Bronco will have the opportunity to hire some of them back, or go a
different direction, if he so desires. It is a win-win situation. This is an
exciting time for BYU football and all sports. I see nothing but positive
results for this coming year.

Wally WestSLC, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:16 p.m.

As a Dolphins fan, I have to give props to Bronco for taking the blame for what
happened at the beginning of this year.

If only Tony Sparano &
Dan Henning were able to man up in recent press conferences like BM did.

As A Utah grad & fan, might I suggest Dan Henning as BYU's next OC.
I kid. I kid. Maybe?

Ted H.Midvale, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:16 p.m.

the lUsers have cried all year that Anae needed to be fired - I'm not even sure
why the lUsers cared in the first place.

It will be interesting to
watch the lUsers now cry that Bronco has done exactly that.

The
hypocrisy is sickening.

CougPleasant Grove, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:14 p.m.

This is the hard reality in coaching. Longevity in a coaching position, or
staff, is the exception. While these decisions are difficult to make, especially
when personal relationships are involved, the right dynamic has to be met and
maintained. It will be interesting to see where the chips fall.

Just
looking at assignments, the receivers struggled and the play calling was
inconsistent. Perhaps that equates to the O.C. and receivers coaches?

oh ye confederacy of duncesFlushing, NY

Dec. 20, 2010 4:14 p.m.

Yeeeeeeeeeeeesss!To the next level we go!

All coaches will land
on their feet and BYU will be better for this.There has been significant
tension amongst the O staff for some time and it has shown on the field.

optimistSun City, CA

Dec. 20, 2010 4:11 p.m.

Thank you Bronco for finally admitting that our early disaster the first half of
the season was the fault of the coaching staff and of the inability, from the
highest source to making decisions. It takes a man to admit to this. I do
appreciate it.

Still there is one more item that needs to be
addressed. You state that the reason that it was so hard to make a decision on
who should be the QB and who should be the back up is that both Nielson and
Heaps were so equal while indicating that Larkinand Mumms were slightly
behind. I would suggest that you go back and look at all the stats of Spring
Practice, when the decision should have been made, and realize that from those
performace stats during Spring Practice, Heaps and Nielson was not all that
equal while Heaps outshined Nielson all the way. I still have those stats and
will keep them forever.

It is easy to forgive, once the offender
has admitted his/her mistakes, feels bad about them, apologise for them and
truly repents.End of discussion.. Otherwise, the debates goes on without
end.

IDCBoise, ID

Dec. 20, 2010 4:07 p.m.

I guess firing Hill worked out. Bronco seems to know what he is doing and has
the, a, courage to do it. I wonder who comes back?

Go Cougars!

UtesforlifeLehi, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:07 p.m.

Bronco says this is no one's fault but his own yet is firing coaches left and
right. So I guess this top to bottom evaluation process is more like "near
the top to bottom".

tracerParadise, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:06 p.m.

If true, major departure from Lavell years where coaches remained well beyond
their limits but were sustained by loyalty. Bronco takes blame for 2-QB system
but you can bet he didn't act alone...perhaps even opposed his OC. But typical
Bronco, he steps up to take full responsibility. Fans like to expound
irrespective of credentials...bottom line is team is performing beyond both
Crowton and many Lavell years. If you fire someone, better have someone better
to replace them. It will be interesting. Takes courage to do what Bronco and
Tom are doing.

Big_BenCenterville, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:04 p.m.

everyone would do well to go back and read the story. They were released, but
that does not mean they are gone. they can all come back and apply. I would
assume that Anae is gone, he cost you guys the game to my utes and with heaps
becoming a stud, you need a real OC. I think this is a good move.

utahcountyuteCedar Hills, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:03 p.m.

Not just Anae but the whole crew?

Interesting way to thank your
offensive staff for turning the season around I would say.

Go Bronco

ConfusedSandy, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:03 p.m.

Every one wanted Anae gone, but with this idiotic move, Bronco is also getting
rid of Reynolds (who may take his two sons with him), Doman, and others.

Reynolds has one of the best reps as a coach and look how his Running
backs performed this year (the bright spot during the bleak QB problems).

AlwaysrightSpanish Fork, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:03 p.m.

Change is hard, but change is good. Keep up the good work, and continue
winning. Good luck at Mississippi and Texas.

NORCALUTEMoTown, CA

Dec. 20, 2010 4:01 p.m.

The wheels are off their cart...it's only going to worse. Hang on to those
"quest" t-shirts...you're going to need 'em.

GrizSalt Lake City, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 4:01 p.m.

Let's hope Anae is promoted to Co-Associate HC along with Reynolds and Doman is
promoted to OC. I also would like to see Cahoon come in as the WR coach, Detmer
as the QB coach and Brian Logan get hired as a Grad Asst on defense.

kiaoraguyProvo, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:59 p.m.

Holy Cow, I mean, WOW! Even Lance Reynolds and Brandon Doman

NewsJunkieCenterville, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:57 p.m.

If I understand the article correctly, this means that the current coaches won't
necessarily be out of a job, it just means they have to compete for their jobs,
just like the players do. Which means, now that Chad Lewis just got hired as
assistant director, he might also want to compete for a coaching job and maybe
Ben Cahoon will hangup his playing career and compete for the wide receiver
job... It's sure going to be interesting, but I would think that Anai and Doman
will be back.

buttersSalt Lake city, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:53 p.m.

not really in on the byu know-how, but it appears that most cougar faithful
don't want anae back. any ideas on who goes or stays from this list?

TheSpikerAlpine, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:52 p.m.

The future looks even brighter now.

TJEagle Mountain, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:51 p.m.

And let the trolling and un-educated opinionating begin! I'll Start! Don't know
why Bronco is doing it this way but I hope it is because he has some ideas about
who on the current staff will be most effective in which positions. Easier to
move position coaches than to fire the ones you don't want where they are now.
The losers are the coordinators who are not retained for their current
positions. Have to be pretty humble to accept a demotion. I wold love to see a
little more aggressive and imaginative play calling on offense but who is to say
that the beginning of the 2010 season would have been any different if it had.
Looking forward to seeing how all this will pan out. I am excited for next year
already.

TrueBlueOrem, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:50 p.m.

Releasing the entire staff just makes it easier for Bronco to completely
reorganize the offensive staff without having to promote, demote, or fire
anyone.

This is a good first step to addressing the offensive
shortcomings of the program.

Hopefully, no more sitting on the ball
at the 20 yard line after marching all the way down the field, bleeding the
clock, and then getting a FG blocked to lose the game.

Just as on
defense, you sometimes have to take chances with blitzes, etc., sometimes on
offense you have to risk throwing the ball, rather than getting too
conservative.

patriotCedar Hills, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:50 p.m.

Wow, what is going on here. First the defensive coordinator gets the ax and now
the rest of the offensive staff. I acutally like Robert Anae so I hope he stays.
I do think BYU needs to improve greatly with the O-line so if that means a new
coach then so be it. The BYU O-line is far too slow and out of shape year in and
year out.

TRUTHSalt Lake City, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:49 p.m.

Mendenhall can't fire himself unfortunately for us....He is a good defensive
coordinator, just not a head coach~ And firing Reynolds after he ran out of sons
who had committed to byu is past a joke!

DWfromUtahOrem, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:49 p.m.

Another season like that and it will be time to replace the head coach.

Thinking DeeperLindon, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:45 p.m.

Not so sure this is a good approach to the problem... I hope the Des News is
short on facts.

CommontaterLehi, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:44 p.m.

I don't think Bronco is blind or stupid. I'm not so sure he is not asking the
staff to live to the standard set for the players. I believe he is sending the
message that there are no entitlements in BYU football, top to bottom. The staff
will have earn their keep just as the players have to earn a spot to play. There
will be no double standard.

This will make for some very exciting
things to come and BYU football will continue to improve.

GunnySpanish Fork, Utah

Dec. 20, 2010 3:44 p.m.

Glad to hear this, it was past due on the OC. Sorry Robert, but we have to get
better and it starts with coaching.

worfMcallen, TX

Dec. 20, 2010 3:42 p.m.

A coach has to do what a coach has to do. Let's hope everything is in place for
spring practice.

Alpine CougAlpine, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:41 p.m.

The best possible news in the off-season. Hopefully this means that Brandon
Doman will be re-hired as the OC. Rumor has it that many players were tired of
Anae's heavy-handed demeanor. Thank you Coach Mendehall. This move in
addition to the marked improvement over the last half of the season bodes well
for the next several seasons. Go Cougs!!

PavalovaSurfers Paradise, AU

Dec. 20, 2010 3:41 p.m.

WOW! We asked for it, and now we got it. This should be interesting.

TheHailstormSouth Weber, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:40 p.m.

Didn't see that coming.

ChuckyZSherwood, OR

Dec. 20, 2010 3:38 p.m.

Bronco,

You did not have to do this on my account. I think the
offensive coaches have brought the team along nicely. You made a tough/good
decision with the defense. Hope to have at least two or three of the same
assistant coaches/offensive coaches in the lineup next year.

Happy Valley HillbillyAlpine, UT

Dec. 20, 2010 3:36 p.m.

This is unfortunate, but needed. Bronco, should also be included in this
housecleaning as he is just as much responsible for the Cougars problems as
anyone else. Let's go forward with a clean slate.